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10 Best Drill Presses 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,482
Drill Press Type
Speed Range
Chuck Size

Most important from
3619 reviews

Drill Press Type
This drill press is great for a home woodworking shop, offering solid performance at a reasonable price.
Speed Range
The adjustable speed is a standout feature, making it easy to switch speeds without changing belts.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any keyed chuck I've ever encountered, and the lasers turned out to be invaluable.
Additional Features
The laser centering beam and built-in work light are very helpful features, enhancing visibility and accuracy.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press features a powerful 6.2-amp induction motor, making it suitable for various drilling tasks. With a mechanical variable speed range from 580 to 3100 RPM, it provides flexibility to work on different materials with precision. The digital speed readout is an excellent feature for maintaining accuracy during drilling operations. The drill press boasts a robust cast iron construction, adding to its durability and stability. It includes a laser guide and LED work light, which are beneficial for enhancing visibility and accuracy.

The 12-inch swing and 3-1/8-inch spindle travel offer ample capacity for larger pieces, while the adjustable depth stop ensures consistent drilling depths. The work table measures 9-1/2 by 9-1/2 inches and can bevel, providing versatility in handling different angles. However, its weight of 87.8 pounds makes it less portable, and its size might require adequate workspace. The chuck capacity of 5/8 inch is standard but may not accommodate larger drill bits.

Additional features like the onboard storage for chuck keys and table roller extension add convenience. This drill press is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable benchtop model with variable speed options and precision aids. The high customer rating of 4.6 stars indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,482
Drill Press Type
Speed Range
Chuck Size

Most important from
3619 reviews

Drill Press Type
This drill press is great for a home woodworking shop, offering solid performance at a reasonable price.
Speed Range
The adjustable speed is a standout feature, making it easy to switch speeds without changing belts.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any keyed chuck I've ever encountered, and the lasers turned out to be invaluable.
Additional Features
The laser centering beam and built-in work light are very helpful features, enhancing visibility and accuracy.
#2

WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, Variable Speed, Cast Iron with Laser and Work Light (4214T)

Rating
9.8
Speed Range
Chuck Size
Additional Features

Most important from
3619 reviews

Speed Range
The variable speed feature is superb, allowing quick adjustments without belt changes.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any key'd chuck I've ever encountered.
Additional Features
The built-in work light and laser centering beam are very helpful for precision tasks.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press (4214T) is a versatile tool suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. It features a 5-amp induction motor, providing robust performance for various drilling tasks. One of its standout features is the variable speed range, adjustable from 580 to 3200 RPM, which allows for precision in different materials. The digital speed readout further enhances accuracy by displaying the current RPM. This drill press has a 12-inch swing and offers a 3-1/8-inch spindle travel, accommodating larger workpieces effectively.

Its cast iron construction ensures durability and stability during operation. The work table, measuring 9-1/2 by 9-1/2 inches, can be beveled and comes with a table roller extension, adding to its flexibility. Additionally, the built-in Class IIIA laser and overhead light provide better visibility and precision. The 5/8-inch keyed chuck and onboard storage for the chuck key add convenience.

At 85 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for those with limited space or who need a more portable option. Despite this, its weight contributes to its stability. The product includes a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding its longevity. It is a reliable choice for a range of drilling needs.

Rating
9.8
Speed Range
Chuck Size
Additional Features

Most important from
3619 reviews

Speed Range
The variable speed feature is superb, allowing quick adjustments without belt changes.
Chuck Size
The supplied chuck is better than any key'd chuck I've ever encountered.
Additional Features
The built-in work light and laser centering beam are very helpful for precision tasks.
#3

JET 18-Inch Mill Drill Machine, 2 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (Model JMD-18)

Rating
9.6
Drill Press Type
Additional Features

Most important from
22 reviews

Drill Press Type
The milling drilling machine offers impressive quality and performs exceptionally well, even during demanding tasks like climb milling.
Additional Features
Accessories such as power feeds and DROs are available, enhancing the machine's versatility and potential for upgrades.

The JET 18-Inch Mill Drill Machine stands out as a powerful option for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a versatile drill press. With a solid 2 HP motor, it provides robust performance, easily handling various materials, including wood and metal. Its significant drilling capacities—up to 3 inches for metal and 12.5 inches for wood—make it suitable for a range of projects, from intricate woodworking to heavy-duty metalworking. The machine supports a maximum speed of 3000 RPM and offers 12 speed settings, allowing users to fine-tune operations according to their needs.

A key strength is its sturdy construction, with a one-piece cast iron column that ensures stability and durability during use. The positive quick-stop knob and external depth gauge enhance user experience by making measurements and adjustments easier. Additionally, the 360-degree head swivel feature adds flexibility, enabling users to drill at various angles, which is particularly useful for complex projects.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing 660 pounds, the machine is quite heavy, which can make mobility and setup a challenge in smaller workspaces. The maximum chuck size of 0.5 inches may limit the compatibility with larger drill bits, potentially restricting some users who need more versatility. Furthermore, while the machine is equipped with a reverse rotation feature, which is great for clearing out chips or performing specific tasks, it might be more complex for beginners to navigate without prior experience. This drill press is ideal for serious DIY enthusiasts or small business owners who require a reliable, heavy-duty machine for various drilling tasks.

Rating
9.6
Drill Press Type
Additional Features

Most important from
22 reviews

Drill Press Type
The milling drilling machine offers impressive quality and performs exceptionally well, even during demanding tasks like climb milling.
Additional Features
Accessories such as power feeds and DROs are available, enhancing the machine's versatility and potential for upgrades.

Buying Guide for the Best Drill Presses

When choosing a drill press, it's important to consider your specific needs and the types of projects you'll be working on. A drill press is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of tasks, from drilling precise holes to sanding and mortising. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best drill press for your requirements. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Drill Press TypeDrill presses come in two main types: benchtop and floor models. Benchtop drill presses are smaller, more portable, and suitable for lighter tasks and smaller workspaces. Floor models are larger, more powerful, and better for heavy-duty tasks and larger projects. Choose a benchtop model if you have limited space or need to move the drill press around. Opt for a floor model if you have a dedicated workshop and require more power and capacity.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in horsepower (HP), determines the drill press's ability to handle tough materials and larger bits. Lower power motors (around 1/3 to 1/2 HP) are suitable for light to medium tasks, such as drilling through wood and soft metals. Higher power motors (3/4 HP and above) are better for heavy-duty tasks, such as drilling through hard metals and thick materials. Consider the types of materials you'll be working with and choose a motor power that matches your needs.
Speed RangeThe speed range of a drill press, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), affects its versatility and ability to handle different materials. A wider speed range allows you to adjust the speed for various tasks, from slow speeds for drilling metal to high speeds for drilling wood. Look for a drill press with multiple speed settings, typically ranging from 500 to 3000 RPM. If you work with a variety of materials, a wider speed range will provide more flexibility.
Drilling CapacityDrilling capacity refers to the maximum size of the hole the drill press can create and the maximum thickness of the material it can handle. This is often indicated by the swing (the distance from the center of the spindle to the support column, doubled) and the quill travel (the vertical distance the spindle can move). For general use, a swing of 8 to 12 inches and a quill travel of 2 to 4 inches are sufficient. For larger projects, look for a drill press with a greater swing and quill travel.
Table Size and AdjustabilityThe table size and adjustability determine the ease of positioning and securing your workpiece. A larger table provides more support for bigger projects, while an adjustable table allows you to tilt and rotate it for angled drilling. Look for a drill press with a sturdy, adjustable table that can be tilted at least 45 degrees in both directions. If you frequently work with large or awkwardly shaped materials, a larger, more adjustable table will be beneficial.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size indicates the maximum diameter of the drill bit the drill press can accommodate. Common chuck sizes are 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch. A larger chuck size allows you to use bigger drill bits, which is useful for heavy-duty tasks. If you primarily work with smaller bits and lighter materials, a 1/2 inch chuck will suffice. For more versatility and the ability to handle larger bits, consider a drill press with a 5/8 inch chuck.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of a drill press. Look for features such as laser guides for precise drilling, depth stops for consistent hole depths, and built-in work lights for better visibility. These features can make your work easier and more accurate. Consider which additional features will be most useful for your specific projects and choose a drill press that includes them.

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